Deadlines nearing for four of the Fermanagh Trust’s grant programmes

Closing dates are coming up shortly for four of the funds administered by the Fermanagh Trust. Applications are welcome for the Fisher Foundation, Fermanagh Recreational Trust, Oisin McGrath Foundation (closing dates 28th February) and the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards (closing date 2nd March). The funds provide an excellent opportunity for young people seeking support in music, the arts, Irish culture, sport and volunteering.

Grants for voluntary work overseas are available from the Fisher Foundation. Much needed financial resources are provided to help organisations and volunteers who give their time to assist so many projects across the world, supporting a wide range of innovative projects which no doubt make major contributions. Last year £15,000 was awarded to local people from 13 organisations including Leprosy Mission, Trocaire and the Church Mission Society. Over the years nearly 500 volunteers from Fermanagh have volunteered overseas with support from the Foundation towards their travel and other costs.

The Fermanagh Recreational Trust supports the organisation, development and funding of recreational activities and facilities with a particular emphasis on young people and youth development. Community, voluntary or sporting organisations or individuals based in Fermanagh can apply. Some of those previously supported by the fund include Enniskillen Royal Boat Club, Enniskillen Rugby Club, County Fermanagh Super Cup NI, Fermanagh GAA and local rower Ryan Ballantine and swimmer Ellie McCutcheon who all received help towards training, equipment costs etc.

The Oisin McGrath Foundation provides financial support to young people who demonstrate exceptional commitment and/or ability in the world of sport but may be held back by their financial situation from pursuing their goals. The Fund will accept applications from Individuals or Groups; The applicants must be between 11 and 18 years of age and residents in Fermanagh or surrounding area. Recent recipients include St Michael’s College student Darragh McBrien who was awarded a grant to assist him in his chosen sports of gaelic and soccer and Enniskillen Royal Grammar School student Callum Smyton who is a member of Ulster schools rugby development squad.

The Joan Trimble Bursary Awards encourage the involvement of young people in creativity, the performing arts and Irish culture. Areas of support for individuals up to and including 25 years of age include: specialist education training sessions and courses; international cultural programmes; participation in master classes and summer schools. Previous recipients include classical singer Andrew Irwin, double bass player Harry Rees and cornet player Rachael Fyffe.

Lauri McCusker Director of the Fermanagh Trust said “This is an exciting time for our organisation with applications coming in for these four funds. We would encourage as many as possible to avail of these excellent opportunities. Funding is available for organisations to enhance their provision and for our young people to develop their careers, take part in various training courses and people of all ages who are planning to volunteer for programmes overseas this year.”

For more information or to apply to any of these funds click the following links...

FISHER FOUNDATION

FERMANAGH RECREATIONAL TRUST

OISIN MCGRATH FOUNDATION

JOAN TRIMBLE BURSARY AWARDS

Email: hazel@fermanaghtrust.org / Tel: 028 66 320 210